Loan types, made clear.

Home loans, also known as mortgages, are loans provided by banks or other financial institutions to individuals or entities for the purpose of purchasing residential property.

Various types cater to different needs — and small differences in structure can mean tens of thousands of dollars over the life of the loan.

• Variable rate loansThe interest rate moves up and down with market conditions. Flexible features, no early-exit fees.
• Fixed rate loansRate stays constant for a chosen period (typically 1–5 years). Predictable repayments.
• Interest-only loansYou pay only the interest for a set period — popular for investment lending and short-term cash-flow management.
• Split loansA combination of variable and fixed — flexibility on one side, certainty on the other.

Refinancing is the process of replacing an existing loan with a new loan — usually on different terms. Most homeowners refinance to achieve one or more of the following:

• Lower the interest rateSecuring a better rate can reduce monthly payments and save tens of thousands over the loan's life.
• Shorten the termMoving from a 30-year to a 20-year mortgage can pay the loan off faster and dramatically cut interest paid.
• Lower monthly repaymentsExtending the term or a lower rate eases cash flow for other priorities.
• Switch loan typesMove from variable to fixed (or vice versa) as your priorities and the market change.
• Access home equityA cash-out refinance lets you borrow against the equity you've built — for renovations, debt consolidation or another property.

Refinancing can be a powerful move — but the costs and benefits need to be weighed carefully. That's exactly where a broker earns their keep.

Investment property loans are designed for individuals or entities purchasing real estate to generate income — through rent or resale. They differ from owner-occupier loans in a few important ways:

• Higher interest ratesLenders consider investment lending riskier than owner-occupied, so rates are usually a touch higher.
• Larger deposit requirementsGenerally you'll need a larger deposit than for an owner-occupier loan.

Common investment property types we structure finance for:

• Residential rentalsSingle-family homes, duplexes and multi-family properties leased to long-term tenants.
• Commercial propertyOffice buildings, retail spaces, warehouses and other commercial premises leased to businesses.
• Mixed-use propertiesCombining residential, commercial and industrial use in one complex.
• Fix-and-flipProperties purchased to renovate and resell at a profit.
• Short-stay rentalsProperties used for short-term guests, such as Airbnb-style holiday lets.

An SMSF — Self-Managed Superannuation Fund — is an Australian retirement savings fund managed by its members, who are also the trustees. SMSFs differ from traditional super funds in that members have direct control over both investment decisions and compliance obligations.

The trustees of an SMSF design the trust structure and draft the trust deed themselves, while complying with the relevant tax and superannuation rules — typically with the assistance of tax and legal advisers.

Benefits of SMSF property investment:

• Investment choiceMembers can invest in a broader range of assets — including direct property — that may not be available in public super funds.
• Control and flexibilityInvestment strategies are tailored to specific retirement goals and personal risk preferences.
• Potential cost savingsFor larger balances, SMSFs can be more cost-effective by avoiding some of the fees charged by traditional funds.

Car loans help individuals and businesses purchase vehicles — cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles and more. If you're in the market for a new car for yourself or your business, the right car finance can help you get there sooner. Our loan specialists help you find a car loan that works, with no hidden fees or surprises.

Things to know about car loans:

• Secured loansYou provide collateral (such as the car) as security against the loan. Lenders typically offer lower rates because the risk to them is lower.
• Unsecured loansNo additional security is provided. The lender relies on your credit score instead. Rates are usually higher, and you may not be able to borrow as much.
• Fixed rateYour interest rate and repayments stay the same for the fixed term — making budgeting easy.

A personal loan lets you borrow a set amount to cover current financial obligations — repayable over an agreed timeframe with interest. People use personal loans for car purchases, debt consolidation, vacations, home renovations, further study, weddings and more.

Personal loans are typically categorised as secured or unsecured, with fixed or variable rates. Several factors influence the rate you'll be offered — credit score and overall financial stability being the most significant.

Common types of personal loans:

• Variable vs fixed rateFixed-rate loans give a predictable repayment; variable-rate loans move with the RBA cash rate. Variable loans usually have no early-exit fees.
• Secured personal loanBacked by an asset (often a car). Lower rates because the lender's risk is lower.
• Unsecured personal loanNo collateral. A guarantor may be required. Lenders can pursue you legally if you default.
• Loan with a guarantorA trusted friend or relative stands in if you can't repay. Lower risk to the lender means a slightly lower rate — make sure the guarantor fully understands the terms.
• Debt consolidation loanCombines multiple debts into a single loan. Easier to manage, but check that the combined interest and fees actually save you money. If debt is becoming unmanageable, you can call the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007.